INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 3
WELCOME ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
PHILOSOPHY ................................................................................................................................................ 5
CONTACT INFORMATION AND ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ............................................................. 6
PROGRAM ENROLLMENT AND ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES ............................................................ 7
PRESCHOOL ENVIRONMENT .................................................................................................................... 8
SCHOOL ROUTINE ....................................................................................................................................... 8
ARRIVAL - DEPARTURE ............................................................................................................................ 9
AUTHORIZATION PICTURES .................................................................................................................. 10
TYPICAL PRESCHOOL DAY .................................................................................................................... 11
MORNING PRESCHOOL SCHEDULE ...................................................................................................... 12
AFTERNOON PRESCHOOL SCHEDULE ................................................................................................. 13
HEALTH AND SAFETY ............................................................................................................................. 14
GUIDELINES FOR RETURNING TO SCHOOL AFTER BEING ILL ...................................................... 15
PLANS FOR MEETING SPECIFIC HEALTHCARE NEEDS ................................................................... 16
ALLERGIES ................................................................................................................................................. 17
WARM WEATHER AND OUTDOOR CARE ............................................................................................ 18
COLD WEATHER AND OUTDOOR CARE .............................................................................................. 18
CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING TO DCF .......................................................................... 19
TOILETING PROCEDURES ....................................................................................................................... 20
BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE TECHNIQUES ................................................................................................... 21
SUPPORT SERVICES .................................................................................................................................. 23
CLOTHING ................................................................................................................................................... 23
SNACKS ....................................................................................................................................................... 24
LUNCH ......................................................................................................................................................... 25
BIRTHDAYS ................................................................................................................................................ 25
CELEBRATIONS, ACTIVITIES, GUEST SPEAKERS .............................................................................. 25
ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................................. 25
SNACKS ....................................................................................................................................................... 24
LUNCH ......................................................................................................................................................... 25
BIRTHDAYS ................................................................................................................................................ 25
CELEBRATIONS, ACTIVITIES, GUEST SPEAKERS .............................................................................. 25
ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................................. 26
PARENT CONFERENCES .......................................................................................................................... 27
PARENT PARTICIPATION ........................................................................................................................ 27
FIRE DRILL PROCEDURES ....................................................................................................................... 29
EVACUATION POLICY ............................................................................................................................. 29
MISCELLANEOUS (COMMUNICATION) ............................................................................................... 30
MISCELLANEOUS (WEEKLY/MONTHLY – NEWSLETTER/CALENDAR)) ...................................... 30
SCHOLASTIC BOOK ORDERS ................................................................................................................. 31
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL – WHAT TO DO ............................................................................................... 32
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT COURSE DESCRIPTION .............................................................................. 33
CHANGE OF STATUS ................................................................................................................................ 34
HANDBOOK AGREEMENT ....................................................................................................................... 35
APPENDIX .................................................................................................................................................. 36
2

The information in this handbook pertains to the operation of The Preschool at
Worcester Technical High School. It has been designed to explain the policies and procedures of The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School to the families who have a child enrolled in the program. It is also to be used with the students enrolled in the Early Childhood program who will be actively working in The Preschool as student teachers-in-training.
This handbook reflects The Preschool’s current policies and procedures. As in any progressive organization, changes may be made from time to time. If changes are made you will be notified immediately.
3

Welcome to the Preschool at Worcester Technical High School. This handbook was written to clarify the policies and procedures of The Preschool. Please read this handbook with care, refer to it and save it for future reference.
The Preschool is an on-site training program, where students from our high school, explore the world of the preschool teacher. Some students may have already selected
Early Childhood Education as their future career. The high school students observe, plan for and work with the children under the direction of our professional staff. In addition to the practicum experience, the students are required to take courses in Child Growth and
Development, and Early Childhood Curriculum Development. A brief description of these courses can be found at the end of this handbook.
The Preschool is a public preschool operated under the auspices of the Worcester Public
Schools, as a satellite site of Belmont Community School. The Early Childhood department consists of a department head, three certified teachers and a preschool instructional assistant. Though there are three teachers in the program who work in and out of the preschool classroom, each teacher has a specific role. Ms. Madeleine Gentile is the assigned preschool teacher who works directly with the children on a daily basis. Ms.
Marge Mann is responsible for overseeing the sophomore students on a daily basis both in the preschool and in their Curriculum Development class (The curriculum development class involves the planning and preparation that occurs prior to working with the children in the classroom). Ms. Mann will be working with her students daily in the morning preschool session. Ms. Sally Smith is responsible for overseeing the freshman students both in our Exploratory program in the fall, and in our Freshman Early
Childhood Education program in December. You will find her, and her students, working in the afternoon preschool session. Ms. Mary Rose is the Early Childhood Education
Department Head. Ms. Paula Derosier-Mariano is the Instructional Assistant.
An advisory board selected from various Early Education and Care agencies and organizations in the community also meets bi-annually (or as needed), to discuss current trends and research in the field of Early Education and Care, for implementation in our program.
We are looking forward to working with you and your child, and hope you find our program to be very exciting. We encourage you to look into our busy, happy, creative classroom and see your child at play. Together, as parents and teachers, we can help your child to develop his/her full potential.
4

The preschool experience is often the child's first encounter outside of daily family life.
That magical age of three and four is a time of questions, a time of curiosity, and getting into things. It is energy beyond belief and a time of much laughter.
Play is an integral part of our program. Play is the major activity in the life of a young child. Through play, the child learns how to control and use his/her body, develop his/her senses, learn about his/her surroundings and learn to interact positively in group situations. The activities your child will be involved in this year are directed towards helping your child grow and develop physically, mentally, socially and emotionally.
If the environment is rich and stimulating, a child can be encouraged and motivated to safely explore the world around him/her. In our preschool, we provide many safe opportunities for learning and exploration. By utilizing these opportunities, the child is able to establish positive social relationships with children his/her own age, high school student teachers, and with adults. These experiences lead toward a positive self-concept in the child and help the child develop a positive attitude towards school.
Our program is creatively planned with activities and projects that are developmentally appropriate to the ages and stages of the children in The Preschool. We know that a child needs to become involved in order to learn. Through developmentally appropriate, teacher-facilitated and free choice activities, the child is provided with the opportunity to touch, taste, see, feel and hear the world around him. We know how being involved often means getting messy or dirty or wet or rumpled. There frequently may be noise and much activity when children are involved in learning. A clean, quiet child may not be an involved child. We encourage each child to express him/herself in experiences that interest him/her and to experiment with new skills in a safe, non-threatening environment.
Although we recognize that our primary job is to work with young children, the needs of each child will be best met through a partnership between the home and the school. This partnership helps ensure that the program will address the needs of each child and that learning and growth will be supported at home and at school.
An effective partnership begins with mutual respect and trust. As Early Childhood professionals, we bring knowledge of child development and early childhood education.
In turn, parents bring a wealth of information about their child. They have dreams and expectations that must be considered and respected. As early childhood educators, we have an obligation to respond to parents' expectations and to help them understand and appreciate how a developmentally appropriate curriculum will offer the best opportunity for their child's success now and in the future.
5

Worcester Technical High School
Dr. Sheila Harrity, Principal harritys@worc.k12.ma.us
508-799-1940
Worcester Technical High School
Allied Health and Human Services Academy
Mr. Brian Potter, Assistant Principal potterb@worc.k12.ma.us
508-799-1985
Worcester Technical High School
Allied Health and Human Services Academy
Early Childhood Education Department
Ms. Mary Rose, Department Head rosem@worc.k12.ma.us
508-751-7536
Worcester Technical High School
Allied Health and Human Services Academy
Early Childhood Education Department
The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School
Ms. Madeleine Gentile, Preschool Teacher gentilem@worc.k12.ma.us
508-799-1967
Ms. Paula Derosier-Mariano, Preschool Instructional Assistant derosierp@worc.k12.ma.us
508-799-1967
Worcester Technical High School
Allied Health and Human Services
Worcester Technical High School
Allied Health and Human Services
Academy
Early Childhood Education Department
Sophomore Curriculum Teacher
(Morning Preschool Session)
Ms. Margaret Mann
508-799-1967 mannm@worc.k12.ma.us
Academy
Early Childhood Education Department
Freshman Curriculum Teacher
(Afternoon Preschool Session)
Ms. Sally Smith
508-799-1967 smiths@worc.k12.ma.us
Worcester Technical High School
Mr. Kyle Brenner, Technical Director brennerk@worc.k12.ma.us
508-799-1140
6

The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School does not discriminate in providing services to children and their families on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, national origin, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or toilet training status. Enrollment is based on a Worcester Public School’s Preschool lottery selection that is completed in the early spring preceding the September start date.
All families are required to register their child at the Parent Information Center located at
768 Main Street (adjacent to the YMCA). A child must be four years of age, by
December 31 st
of the school year they wish to enroll their child. A child’s birth certificate and family’s proof of Worcester residency must be submitted to initiate this process.
Once registered, families must wait until the lottery selection occurs and then return to the Parent Information Center to formally enroll their child. At this time, you need to bring a record of your child’s up to date immunizations.
An Open House is typically held in early June, at which time you will have an opportunity to visit your child’s classroom and meet your child’s teacher and future classmates. Please note, all required documents must be submitted in a timely manner, otherwise placement of your child in our program may be jeopardized.
Any parent who is interested in enrolling their child at The Preschool at Worcester
Technical High School is encouraged to visit the program with your child prior to enrolling. Please call the school to arrange a mutually convenient time to visit. During your visit, as the parent, you will be given a tour of the program and also provided with an overview of how our preschool program operates. Items covered will include, but not limited to:

Center Philosophy and Curriculum

Administration organization

Program enrollment and admissions procedure

The Preschool Environment

School Routine

Arrival/Departure

Typical Preschool Day

Daily Morning Schedule

Daily Afternoon Schedule

Procedures for identifying child abuse and neglect

Procedures for emergency health care

Toileting policies and procedures

The discipline and guidance policy

The procedures for developmental screening and assessments

Policy for supervision of children

Suggestions for nutritious foods that should be sent for snack
7

A well-planned environment is an important factor in setting the stage for successful early learning experiences. A room organized with clearly defined and well-equipped learning centers encourages choice, independence, decision-making and exploration.
Our classroom has been designed to include areas for:
 Quiet Play - centers that accommodate quiet activities such as: library, art and fine
 motor activities.
Active Play - centers include block building and constructing, dramatic play, woodworking, sand and water play, science and discovery and large motor activities. These areas involve more oral communication and often have a quiet



"hum" about them.
Large Group Activities -a large carpeted area for meeting/circle time, music and movement, and whole group activities.
Small Group/Individual Activities - a small cozy area for one child or a few children for reading and listening to books and stories.
Technology Activities - an area set aside for technology and technology related equipment and materials. This includes the use of I PADs for skyping events and correspondence.
The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School follows the Worcester Public Schools calendar for all holidays, vacations and professional development days.
The A.M. Preschool schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:15 A.M. –10:45 A.M.
The P.M. Preschool schedule is Monday through Friday, 10:45 A.M.-1:15 P.M.
Entrance to the Preschool classroom is through the side door of Building A of the
Worcester Technical High School complex (as you face the high school, the entrance to the preschool is on the right, adjacent to the playground). The doors to The Preschool will be opened at 8:10 A.M. for the morning Preschool session, and 10:40 A.M. for the afternoon Preschool session. Please hold child’s hand when walking from and to the car.
The doors will be opened again at 10:40 A.M. for the morning Preschool session dismissal, and 1:10 P.M. for the afternoon Preschool session dismissal. It is extremely
8

important that you pick up your child at the appropriate time.
To ensure your child's safety, the doors will be locked at all other times. If you need to enter The Preschool at any other time, you must enter through the main entrance of the school. In all likelihood, you will be stopped at the security desk, at which time you must register with the security guard…this is a WPS safety directive. During inclement weather, The Preschool will be closed when the Worcester Public Schools is closed. Information regarding school closings and cancellations may be heard on any of the local radio stations or on television . In the event there is a delay in the opening of school, the morning preschool session will be cancelled!
Please call the Preschool if your child is going to be absent for any reason.
We would appreciate it if you would let us know why your child is missing. In all cases of communicable diseases, such as, conjunctivitis, etc., please call the school immediately.
If you know you are going to be late at dismissal time, please notify the school immediately so that we can reassure your child. In the event that you, or the person designated by you to pick up your child, should be more than 10 minutes late in picking up your child the following steps will be taken:
1 st
late pickup – a verbal warning will be given
2 nd
late pickup—a written warning will be given
3 rd
late pickup—you will be required to arrive 15 minutes before regular dismissal time.
If you should be later than 1:30 P.M. in picking up your child, s/he will be brought to the
Main Office. Please pick your child up at this location.
Parents are requested to bring their child directly into the preschool (or playground).
Upon arrival, please greet the preschool teacher and sign your child in. A notebook will be available for you to initial your arrival time. At the end of the day, you are again requested to sign your child out. This is all in the interest of your child’s safety! The preschool teacher (or her designee), will make every effort to be at the door when you arrive.
When a child is picked up at dismissal time, the preschool teacher (or her designee), will again make every effort to be present. On occasion, parents have requested to pick up their child early (10-15 minutes), from the preschool. If you encounter a situation such as this, please do not attempt to take your child without making direct contact with the preschool teacher. Again, be sure and sign your child out when you leave.
The Sign In / Sign Out notebook is located in the hallway of the preschool, where our
Art Gallery is located.
9

In the interest of safety, we are requesting one clear picture of each person who is authorized to pick up your child from the Preschool (please include parents), as well as a picture of your child. These people should be listed on the Authorization Form and will be required to show a valid identification with a photograph, before the child is released to them. At times, the preschool teacher may be absent, or may be required to attend meetings during the school year, that may prevent her from being present at dismissal time. Though a substitute will be present, s/he may not be familiar with the individuals on your child's authorization form. If a question does arise, the substitute can readily check your child's folder and the identification presented. Our intent is not to make life difficult for you; rather this is for your child's safety. These pictures will be requested on the first day of school and will be returned to you at the end of the school year (any candid picture will do).
Please be sure to notify the Preschool Teacher in writing if there is going to be a change
(addition/deletion) in the authorized person. Changes may be noted at any time during the school year by completing and returning the form at the end of this handbook. We cannot release a child to anyone for whom there is not written authorization .
Children under twelve years of age will not be allowed to bring children to or pick up children from school. Furthermore, no child will be permitted to travel to or from The
Preschool by him/herself in a taxi.
10

Our typical day can be summed up in this way: arrival at 8:15 A.M. for the morning preschool session, with dismissal at 10:45 A.M. and arrival at 10:45 A.M. with dismissal at 1:15 P.M. for the afternoon preschool session, with freedom, structure and play in between.
When the children enter the classroom, they are greeted by the preschool teacher and a student teacher who will assist the children with washing their hands before beginning their busy day. The children are then given the freedom to explore the centers that have been set up for them. The activities in the centers can change from week to week, day to day and sometimes hour to hour. The children have a variety of centers to choose from on a regular basis such as large equipment, sand, block, library and writing, science, paint, water, wood construction, dramatic play and fine motor activities (puzzles, clay, manipulatives and art). In addition, activities that involve gross motor, fine motor, language arts and reading, science, technology, and mathematics are presented on a regular basis based on the weekly theme. There are enough interest areas and activities going on to motivate the child to become involved in "learning". On occasion, there are guest speakers, visitors, and activities for special days. There is always something new or some way of playing that is new.
A student teacher is assigned to the centers to lend support when needed, and to help the children when they momentarily lose control of materials, equipment or even emotions.
Student teachers are available to answer a question, offer a challenging statement and/or make suggestions . . . all keeping within the developmental needs of the child.
11

(8:15 AM to 10:4 5 AM)
12

(10:45 AM – 1:15 PM)


13

Your child's health and safety is a matter of major importance to all of us. The
Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires a yearly physical examination, including all immunization dates, for each child in the preschool. This must remain on file in order to meet state licensing requirements.
Children who become ill at school will be taken to the Nurse's Office. A parent will be notified immediately. If a child is sick and a parent cannot be reached, the person on the emergency card will be contacted. Please make every attempt to come for your child when called, for s/he is sick and unable to participate in the program.
When any of the children or group of children has, to your knowledge, been exposed to a communicable illness, please inform the preschool teacher. A notice stating that your child may have been exposed to a communicable illness such as conjunctivitis, head lice, etc., will be posted on the Parents' Bulletin Board. The name of the child who has the communicable illness will remain confidential. If your child is taking antibiotics and/or medication due to a communicable illness, please check with the doctor before you allow your child to return to school. A physician’s note will be required upon return to school.
14

This is for the safety and well-being of all involved in our Preschool Program
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
FEVER : Temperature of 101 *F or above; taken by the ear.
GUIDELINES FOR RETURNING TO SCHOOL
EYE DISCHARGE: bloodshot eyes with itching, tearing, or mucous discharge
SKIN RASH
DIARRHEA: instances of watery or greenish stools)
VOMITING
Red,
(3 or more
(“not spitting up”)
LICE/HAIR INFESTATION
May return to the Preschool only when child’s temperature has been normal for a full 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medicine.
May return to the Preschool after 24 hours of being on an antibiotic treatment.
Must be seen by a doctor. May return to the
Preschool with a doctor’s clearance stating diagnosis and treatment plan.
May return to the Preschool 24 hours after all symptoms are completely gone. If, after returning to the Preschool, the child has a recurrence of diarrhea, s/he must go home until the symptoms are completely gone.
May return to the Preschool 24 hours after all symptoms are completely gone.
CHILD IS BEHAVING ILL
AS INDICATED BELOW:

Lethargic, sleepy

Complains of a headache

Complains of a stomachache

Complains of an earache
May return to the Preschool after receiving specified shampoo treatment AND all signs of infestation, nits and eggs are completely gone .
May return to the Preschool 24 hours after all symptoms are gone and is able to participate in the classroom activities. If these symptoms occur while at the Preschool, parents will receive a courtesy call and/or note making them aware of the situation.
15

Please keep us posted! It is very important that parents keep the Preschool informed of any changes in telephone numbers, emergency numbers, addresses, unusual daily schedule or other pertinent information. Any change in the daily routine of your child may cause stress. This may include: moving, change in family structure, marital separations, divorce, illness of a family member, and/or the death of a pet or person close to the child. It is important that we know of these changes at the start of the school day to better help your child.
The Preschool/School Nurse shall inform parents immediately of an injury which requires emergency care beyond minor first aid and shall inform parents in writing of any first aid administered to their child within 24 hours of the incident. An injury report for any accident which requires first aid or emergency care shall be maintained in the child's folder.
Prescription and non-prescription medication are not given to children while in The
Preschool (exception-- life threatening emergencies). All Epi-pens and treatments for children with asthma will be stored in the WTHS Health Center and will be administered by the School Nurse in accordance with the written order and/or prescription of the child’s health care practitioner. All prescription medication must be:

Brought to school in its’ original container and include the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage, and the number of times per day the medication is to be administered. This prescription label will be accepted as the written authorization of the health care practitioner.

All medication must be brought into the school by the child’s parent and/or guardian. Medication that is to be housed in the WTHS Health Center may not be transported in a child’s backpack. It must be delivered to the school by the child’s legal parent or guardian.

The parent must fill out the Medical Treatment Enrollment Health Form before the medication can be administered.
16

In the cases of allergies and specific health care concerns, a list of allergies will be posted in the preschool classroom as well as in the preschool office and kitchen. The person responsible for posting this information as well as keeping the posting up to date is the
Preschool Teacher. All members of the ECE Department and student teachers are responsible for taking the necessary precautions regarding allergies. Parents will give the
Preschool teacher permission to post the food allergies and restrictions in clearly visible locations.
The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School is a Peanut Free Zone! We have both high school students and children who have allergies to peanut and peanut by products, therefore any type of peanuts and/or peanut by products cannot be brought into any area of the Early Childhood Department!
The Preschool will maintain as part of the child’s record an individual health care plan for each child with a chronic medical condition which has been diagnosed by a licensed health care practitioner. A scheduled meeting regarding this plan will be reviewed with the school nurse, the parent, and the preschool teacher prior to the child’s start date into the Preschool program.
The plan must describe the chronic condition, its symptoms, medical treatment that may be necessary while in the Preschool program’s care, the potential side effects of that treatment, and the potential consequences to the child’s health if the treatment is not administered. The meeting will specifically address the child’s medical condition, medication and treatment needs.
In all cases, please be sure to read and complete the Medical Treatment Release Form included in the Enrollment Sheets. For additional information please refer to the
“Worcester Public Schools Student Handbook” under Health Services for Students .
17

As we recognize the warm weather during the months of September and October as well as May and June, we are requesting that you keep the following information in mind when preparing to send your child to school. As part of the regular preschool curriculum, we go outside in all types of weather; either to run around on the playground, work in our garden, or simply take a walk around the school. From time to time as most of you know, the sun’s rays have a tendency to be particularly hot during certain times of the year. To avoid sunburns and protect your child’s skin, we are asking that you put sun block on your child before he/she heads comes to school . We are not in a position to apply sun block, unless we receive a written note from your child’s physician as to the kind and type of sun block you need (This is because some children may have allergic reactions to some types of sun blocks). To be proactive and avoid the harmful rays from the sun, please provide a baseball cap, visor, or sun hat with a brim to protect your child’s face
. Furthermore, please make sure your child’s hat is clearly labeled!
Also, please avoid sending your child to school in “flip flop like sandals.” As the children run and play outside in the playground, they have a tendency to trip and fall wearing these types of shoes. We encourage active play on the playground, but at the same time, we want to keep your child safe!
18

In accordance with the Department of Early Education and Care Guidelines, in extremely cold weather, and especially if there are high winds, children will remain indoors where gross motor activities will be planned. Any combination of wind and cold that results in a wind chill at or below 20 degrees F poses a significant health risk.
We use the Child
Care Weather Watch Chart (courtesy of the Iowa Department of Public - Health Healthy
Child Care) found in the appendix of this book along with a dose of common sense to determine whether the children will be taken outside for outdoor play.
If your child takes the bus, especially in the winter months, please dress your child warmly with snow pants, boots, jackets, mittens and/or gloves, and hats as we typically go out for snow play.
This procedure is drawn specifically from the Worcester Public Schools Child Abuse and
Neglect Reporting Procedures and is meant to compliment the WPS policy, here at
Worcester Technical High School. In all cases, the WPS Reporting procedures shall be followed:
Identification *
A staff member reports any suspected case of
Abuse/Neglect to the Preschool teacher. The
Preschool teacher reports the suspected case of child abuse and/or neglect to the Department
Head who will contact :
1.
The School Adjustment Counselor
2. and in a case of her absence ,
The Allied Health and Human Services Cluster
Guidance Counselor
19

*In the event of physical abuse , the school nurse shall be contacted, first. Furthermore, for the sake of familiarity of the child, the school adjustment counselor/guidance counselor or
school nurse will be requested, when possible, to interview the child in the preschool environment.
Review of the Facts *
Depending upon who was contacted and interviewed the child (the Counselor(s) or School
Nurse), s/he will review the case with the reporter. The application for the Department of
Child and Families (DCF) will be submitted by the
School Adjustment Counselor, Guidance
Record Keeping I
Counselor, Teacher and/or School Nurse.
*If an indication of Abuse/Neglect is suspected,
the School Adjustment Counselor and/or Administrator in
Record Keeping II
Charge contacts the DCF and files a verbal report at
509-929-2000.
*The School Adjustment counselor or the
Administrator/Counselor in Charge files a 51A written report within 48 hours of the verbal report. The School
Principal must sign off on the written report.
The files of the 51A Form and DCF reports are kept in a separate folder in School Adjustment Office, the Guidance
Counselor’s or the Administrator in Charge office for one full year. After this time, if the report was unsubstantiated, the forms must be destroyed.
The bathroom is located in The Preschool classroom and is to be used by the preschool children only. There are two toilets and two sinks available for use by the children. A student teacher is required to monitor the children's use of the bathroom. Boys and girls may use the facilities simultaneously.
At no time shall a child be punished, verbally abused or humiliated for soiling, wetting his clothing or not using the toilet.
20

Children are required to wash their hands with soap and running water after toileting and before snacks and meals or handling food.
For soiled clothing with fecal matter, the stools shall be emptied into the toilet. This clothing or any other soiled clothing shall be placed in a sealed plastic bag, labeled with the child's name and returned to the child's parent at the end of the session. This bag will be stored away from the child's other items of clothing.
A change of clothing should be available for each child. Please send extra clothes in a clear plastic (zip-loc) bag with the child’s name on it. Remember to change clothes kept at school as the season changes (replace shorts with long pants). Extra "school" clothes will be available for changing purposes in the event a child does not have an extra set of clothing. We ask you to please launder and return any "school clothing" as soon as possible.
Behavior guidance shall be consistent and based on the understanding of the individual needs and development of the child. The guidance policy is in accordance with the
Department of Early Education and Care. Our goal is to encourage and allow each child to become a creative, independent, responsible, and socially adept member of society.
This involves teaching and encouraging the child to make responsible choices and accepting the consequences of his/her choices. Recognizing this, the preschool teacher, staff, and student teachers may use the following behavior guidance techniques to help children manage their behavior.
1.
Environment : The preschool is set up and designed for children. The furniture is child-sized with lots of hands-on experiences.
2.
Logical Rules: Children are encouraged to keep their hands to themselves and take care of their learning environment. As developmentally appropriate, these rules are determined by and discussed with the children. Logical rules help children see that their behavior can have a direct influence on their environment.
3.
Curriculum: Is developmentally appropriate, based on the children’s needs and level of readiness.
4. Choices: When choices are provided, children are given the opportunity to
feel responsible for his own behavior. The key here is children are given two
choices for example, if we want the children to clean up the blocks that they
21

were using we might say, "Do you want to pick up the large blocks or the
small blocks”?
4.
Positive Behavior: We reinforce the behavior that we want to encourage,
“catching” them in appropriate behavior.
5.
Redirection: Often interesting a child in another activity can eliminate a potential difficulty. We might ask a child to help us or send them to a different area to play. Attempts are made to redirect the child's unacceptable behavior into a parallel acceptable behavior. For example, if a child was throwing crayons, the teacher may say, "Crayons aren't for throwing. You can color on this paper with the crayons." If hitting occurs, the teacher may say, "It hurts when you hit people. Instead come over here and hit the pillow or pound the clay if you are angry."
The child is given alternate ways to deal with his behavior and at the same time, he is given an opportunity to learn socially acceptable ways of dealing with his feelings.
6.
Distraction : If the child is crying, bring the child over to look out the window. If the child starts to grab a toy from a friend, the child may be given another toy with which to play.
7.
Positive Reminder : Telling the child what we want them to do , rather than using “NO” or “DON’T”.
8.
Say It: A child is encouraged to verbalize his feelings. Often the child has to be reminded to "use his/her words"--- say how s/he is feeling or be encouraged to tell a child what s/he is feeling with words, rather than hitting.
9.
Physical Redirection: In some cases suggesting a child report to an area doesn't always work. Instead, it becomes necessary to physically guide the child to an area/activity.
For example, if the child is to put the blocks away, the teacher may
need to gently take the child's hand and pick up the block and return it to the
shelf. Another example may be if it is snack time and a child doesn't respond
when it is time to go to snack, the teacher may take the child's hand and guide
him to the snack table. Also, a simple pat on the back can be reassuring if the
child is tense or upset.
10.
Renewal Time : Sometimes a child needs to be removed from the situation for a very brief time, allowing them to consider alternative behavior. Despite our best efforts from time to time, a child may not be able to gain full control of his/her behavior. When this occurs, we may find it necessary to separate the
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child from the rest of the preschool environment/ongoing activities (eg. bring them to the cubby area or quiet area of the classroom). Until the child is able to regain his/her self-control and re-join the group, the Preschool Teacher and/or her designee will keep the child within her immediate and direct supervision. In some cases, it may just involve placing one of the “adult” teachers in close proximity to the child until s/he is able to regain his/her selfcontrol. Throughout either case, the teacher is reminded to talk calmly and maintain calm body language when working with the child. If it becomes necessary to separate the child from the group, the parent will be notified and the incident will be recorded and placed in the child’s folder.
Please note as part of our ongoing jobs as early childhood educators, we try to promote a feeling of goodwill and respect among, the children, student teachers, parents, and families we serve. Any ongoing situation will be brought to the attention of the parents to ensure a cooperative approach. Please do not hesitate to contact the Preschool Teacher if you have any concerns. In no cases however will children:

Be deprived of special privileges or food because of behavior problems.

Be subjected to corporal punishment (eg. spanking) and physical restraints are not allowed.

Be subjected to verbal abuse, humiliation and/or severe punishment.

Be punished for soiling or wetting themselves.
Sometimes we find after a child has been accepted into our program, we find additional services may be needed to better meet your child’s needs. In the event this happens, we will make every effort to help you as parents/guardians locate the appropriate services for your child that will best service his/her needs. Furthermore, if we feel that the child may benefit from special education services, direct contact will be made with the Worcester
Public School's Department of Special Education, only with parental permission , to request a TEAM Evaluation so that the full evaluation process can be initiated. Special education services are available for any child that meets specific criteria according to the
MA Chapter 766 Guidelines.
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Think of your child's comfort and provide simple clothing that is free of complicated fastening allowing independence. In the winter when boots are worn, we ask that each child bring a pair of shoes or slippers to wear in school. Boots may be bulky and inhibit a child's play.
Children are encouraged to wear pants, jeans, or sweatpants in The Preschool. “
Party clothing” is discouraged as it inhibits the child's chance to truly express himself in active play.
Please discourage your child from bringing jewelry (necklaces, bracelets and rings), money or other valuable possessions to school. These can present a safety hazard or become lost. Pierced earrings may be worn if they are not the dangling or hooped variety. The Preschool cannot be held responsible for any property that is lost.
On the first day of school, we request that each child bring in one set of extra clothes
(pants, shirt, underwear and socks) clearly marked with child's name, and placed in a clear plastic bag. Marking each piece of clothing with your child’s name reduces “our ever growing collection of unclaimed clothing”. (This includes hats, mittens, and boots in the winter months). These are to remain in school for the year in case of "accidents" and/or "emergencies". Periodically, check your child’s clothing; what may have fit in
September may no longer fit in March! You will be amazed at how much your child grows before your eyes! All clearly labeled clothing will be returned at the end of the school year.
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The school will provide a mid-morning snack each day for the morning preschool session. Please be sure that the teacher is made aware of all food allergies. (This information should be noted on the child's information sheets).
The Preschool is a peanut-free school. Therefore, we insist that parents refrain from sending in snacks with peanut and/or peanut by products. We further ask that you avoid sending in any types of candy as well as soda as we are trying to instill healthy eating practices. Occasionally, your child will have the opportunity to cook or otherwise prepare special food for snack and/or a meal. When special treats are to be prepared by the children, you will usually be notified in advance.
The children in the afternoon preschool session will be provided lunch, at no cost, at school. Afternoon lunches are provided on a daily basis. The children will be encouraged to eat as much of their lunch as possible. Lunches are nutritionally balanced, and meet federal guidelines. (A menu will be posted on the Parent Information Board.)
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Your child's special day is also a day of celebration in the preschool. Children enjoy being recognized on this special day. We celebrate birthdays at snack time in the A.M. session (or just prior to our dismissal), and at lunch in the P.M. session. This is one of the times parents are encouraged to provide a special snack for all the children to share and enjoy. Snacks must be in sealed, store-bought packages with an ingredient label.
Individual portions are easiest . (We encourage you to send healthy snacks, i.e. gogurt, small muffins, frozen juice pops, fruit, applesauce). Portions for eighteen should be sent to allow for "accidents". Again, please be aware that we are a peanut free zone!
As a precautionary measure, before any foods are brought into the preschool, please make a point to speak with the preschool teacher.
Out of respect for all religious sects, holidays are celebrated with no reference to a particular religion. However, we do try to include a variety of family and/or educational activities to help broaden a child’s overall life and cultural experiences.
To help with these events, from time to time, parents are asked to bring in specific items for a special event. A sign-up list will be located in the Cubby Area and is usually posted one week in advance of the anticipated event/celebration.
In addition to these activities, guest speakers are invited to speak to the children on different topics. If you know of a speaker who would be willing to come to our school or you would like to come, please let us know! We are always looking for new ideas. Most
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of the individuals who do come in to speak, volunteer their time and the dates of their presentations are contingent upon their schedule.
In the spring, one of the highlights of the Preschool program at WTHS is the opportunity for the children to visit many of the technical areas within the school. Opportunities abound for the children to visit the technical areas such as Carpentry, Cosmetology,
Culinary, Environmental Technology, etc. In any event, announcements of speakers and on-site visits to the various technical areas in the school are made well in advance. Please check the monthly calendar and weekly newsletters for specifics regarding these field trips.
Beginning in the fall of 2012, the Worcester Public Schools selected The Work
Sampling System as the primary means of assessing children in the Worcester Public
Schools in grades Pre-K through 6. The Work Sampling System is designed to document and assess children’s skills, knowledge, behavior, and accomplishments across a wide variety of curriculum areas on multiple occasions in order to enhance teaching and learning. The Work Sampling System consists of three complementary elements:
1) Developmental Guidelines and Checklists,
2) Portfolios, and
3) Summary Reports.
The assessments are typically performed by the Pre-K teacher and are designed to occur in an informal and non-threatening manner. That is , most observations will occur while the child is involved in his/her intentional play (This includes learning materials, activities, supplies, and lessons plans that are provided and have a specific purpose in mind).
A Parent Conference is usually held two to three times per year to discuss your child’s overall progress
. Conferences are typically scheduled in late November, mid
January and finally in late May, early June.
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Please do not hesitate to contact the Preschool teacher if you have any questions regarding your child and/or his progress at any time during the school year. We are most interested in providing a warm, caring, nurturing environment for your child's first few years of school. If at any time during the year, you feel the need for an individual conference, please speak to the Preschool Teacher to set up an appointment . In addition, the preschool teacher will make every effort to be available during arrival and departure for day-to-day updates when necessary.
You may find from time to time, the children will address the high school students as
"teacher". They are "teachers-in-training". Questions involving your child's progress and/or changes in your child's dismissal routine should be brought to the attention of the
Preschool Teacher.
The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School acknowledges the important role parents play in the life of the young child. To that end, we encourage parental participation which may come in many different forms. Below are some suggested activities that you might consider as you think about becoming involved in your child’s education:

Reading a story

Sharing an art project

Sharing a cultural tradition

Preparing a special snack or cooking project with the children

Coordinating a fundraising activity

Arranging guest speakers
Please do not feel you must limit yourself to this list, if you have an idea/suggestion, please feel free to speak with the Preschool teacher. We will gladly do our best to incorporate your idea into our curriculum.
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At least once a month, the children along with the entire school will participate in a fire drill. Monthly fire drills are mandated procedures for all public schools. Therefore, we use these drills as a teaching opportunity for the children as well as the high school students. In the event of a fire drill, the children will be guided out of the preschool classroom through the cubby area (each child will be assigned one or two children to walk with). They will then take a left and head down the hall and out the side door of
Building A (this is the exterior door that the children and families enter and exit each day). The children will then proceed down the sidewalk across the parking lot to the island that separates the two sides of the parking lot. We will remain in this location until we are given the “all clear” response to return into the building. Please note we are required to carry out fire drills in all types of weather. When the children return to the classroom, they will proceed to the rug, where the attendance will be taken before their daily activities will resume.
In the event, you should arrive in the midst of a fire drill, please do not try to enter the building; for your safety you will not be allowed. To put you at ease, we are so fortunate in addition to our staff, to have Ms. Paula serve on the school wide emergency response team.
In the event, we must leave the building due to a power failure, water main break, etc. we will

Accompany and count the preschool children along with the high school students and stay with them as we exit through the nearest safe exit using the side door of
Building A

Bring the preschool and high school student rosters

If the exit is blocked, use the next closest, safe exit situated away from the emergency

Avoid unsafe conditions

Walk over to Christopher House where the preschool children and high school students will convene as a group

Take attendance to determine if preschool child or high school student is missing

Report any missing preschool child or high school student

Wait for further instructions
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The situation shall not be discussed with the public or any information will not be released to the media by the staff. It shall solely be the Superintendent and/or the designee who is responsible for all communication with the public and media (adapted from the WPS Emergency Guide - Safe Schools/Healthy Students; Revised August
2011)
When calling the school for any reason regarding your child, please make it a point to speak to one of the adult teachers in the program, not the student teachers. If the
Preschool Teacher is unable to take your call, please ask to speak to one of the adult teachers in the program; please, do not leave any messages with the student teachers .
Though our student teachers are quite responsible, please understand they are in training and we must respect the issues of confidentiality…this is for the safety and well-being of your child. Thanks for your understanding on this matter.
At the beginning of each month, your child will receive a monthly calendar and newsletter highlighting the upcoming events and non-school days. Special events, guest speakers, and “no school” dates will be noted. These calendars will be labeled with your child's name and will be placed in your child's cubby/backpack. Please hold on to these during the month. If you misplace yours and/or need another copy (for a babysitter/grandparent, etc.) extra copies will be available in the cubby area, or please ask the Preschool Teacher for additional copies.
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Usually every other month, your child will receive order forms for Scholastic Book
Clubs. Though the school does not gain any profit from the sales of the books, we do receive special “bonus points” that allow us to purchase books for our classroom library.
There is no obligation to order these books; however, many are all time classics your child is sure to enjoy! The prices are often far below store prices. We encourage you to take advantage of the Book Club for the benefits gained by you and your child. As a parent, reading to your child may be one of the most influential activities you can do with your child.
In addition to the warm feelings that you and your child reap from sharing this special time, there are some other attitudes and skills that are enhanced when a child is read to. They include the enhancement of listening skills, attention span, language development, vocabulary, concept development (children can visit new places, meet exciting people and learn new information through books), how to cope with emotions and feelings, creative thought and imagination, values and cultural expectations and an appreciation of literature.
Reading to your child can be both entertaining and pleasurable. Research has indicated that if a child is read to on a regular basis, it may influence a child’s desire to read and spark a life-long love of reading and books.
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As you anticipate that first day of school, there are a few things we would like you to keep in mind. Since this is a new experience for both you and your child, each child may react differently to the start of school. This is true whether you have one, two, three, four five or more children. Therefore, to make this separation process easier on everyone, we suggest that both the parent/guardian and child come in for an hour visit prior to the child enrolling for the first time into our program. We are more than willingly to arrange a time that is mutually convenient for both you and your child. We also hold an annual open house in early June for all new prospective families and their child. This is a great opportunity to meet your child’s teacher, check out our classroom, and meet new classmates…you will be surprised how helpful these connections when child starts school in September.
On the first day of school, we encourage parents to stay until their child is settled. Fear not, if you are really anxious about leaving your child, we do have access to an observation booth, where you can see your child involved in active play, but they cannot see you!
Two things we have found helpful over the years is to send a child in with a photo of yourself and/or your child in a Ziploc bag (or we can easily laminate, so your child does not worry that it will get damaged) and on the first day of school, it is helpful, if you attempt to engage your child in a fun activity (created by our enthusiastic high school students). In all cases, please do not sneak out without saying good-bye to your child; rather once you say good bye, leave graciously and do not look back. Experience has shown that when a child cries when his/her parents leave, he/she is usually only upset for a few minutes and then he/she is fine. Furthermore, in this new age of skyping, we have ways of keeping you in touch virtually.
No matter what, we recognize that starting school for the first time can be a traumatic time for both the child and parent. Please feel free to talk to the Preschool teacher or anyone one of the ECE faculty to discuss your concerns (specific contact information may be found in the front of this booklet).
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As part of the total training and educational process of the high school students enrolled in the Early Childhood program at Worcester Technical High School, the students not only work in The Preschool, but are also required to take related courses in Early
Childhood Education. These related courses include a course in Child Growth and
Development, Early Childhood Curriculum Development, First Aid and C.P.R. In all cases a Chapter 74 certified technical teacher in the field of Early Education and Care and/or health professional (in the case of CPR) teaches the courses listed below.
The Preschool component of the Early Childhood program is an on-site training program for ninth to twelfth grade students who are preparing to work in the field of Early
Education and Care. The course is designed to provide the high school students with the opportunity to plan and implement activities that are developmentally appropriate for preschool children. A certified teacher on a daily basis closely supervises the high school students. All lesson plans and activities prepared by the students are reviewed and evaluated by the teacher, prior to any use with the children, to determine their appropriateness.
Upon successful completion of this course, the students are eligible to further their studies as student teachers in Child Care Centers and/or in the WPS as student interns at various public schools.
Chi
This course places emphasis on the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development of the child from birth through the preschool years. It introduces the uniqueness of the preschool child, and shows how to work with young children in a way that corresponds with each child's developmental level. Throughout the course, the teacher assistant's role in growth and development is stressed. Students also investigate the purpose, developmental value and teacher’s role for each of the learning centers in the preschool environment.
Students become part of the planning process required for implementing the activities in
The Preschool. Ideas for activities are researched and lesson plans are written, tested and prepared for use in The Preschool. Great attention is placed on planning and implementing “developmentally appropriate activities” for three to five year old children.
Students explore methods and techniques to present activities in order to involve children and encourage their participation and exploration of their environment as well as foster the child’s development.
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Please keep this form with your school handbook and your school information.
If a change occurs that should be noted on your child's school records, please complete this form and return it to the school immediately. Sharing of this information will ensure that you will receive mailings from the
Worcester Public Schools in a timely manner.
Upon receipt of this notice, we will make the requested change and send you another form in case you have further changes at some future date.
Changes being requested: (please check appropriate item)
____ Change of address
____ Change of Telephone Number
____ Cell Phone Number ___________________________
____ Home Phone Number _________________________
____ Change of Mother's Place of Employment
____ Change of Father's Place of Employment
____ Change of persons to whom child may be released
____ Change of marital status
____ Other__________________________________
Item to be deleted________________________________________________________
Item to be added_________________________________________________________
2nd item to be deleted_____________________________________________________
2nd item to be added______________________________________________________
Please use the back of this sheet for additional notes if necessary .
Effective date of above changes _________________________________
Signed: ____________________________________Date:________________________
For school use only : Change noted and made by:________________Date: __________
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I, ______________________________________________ have received and read the
Parent Handbook for, The Preschool at Worcester Technical High School . I understand the policies and procedures that are discussed in this booklet, and agree to abide by these rules.
_______________________________ ___________________
(signature) (date)
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Guides in Action
State suggestions or directions in a positive, rather than a negative form. A positive suggestion is one which tells a child what to do instead of pointing out what he/she is not to do. A positive direction is less likely to rouse resistance. It makes help seem less constructive rather than limiting. When we make suggestions in a positive way, we are giving the child a good social tool to use. To put directions positively represents a step in developing a more positive attitude toward children’s behavior.
Give the child a choice only when you intend to leave the situation up to the child.
Choices need to be legitimate. With increasing maturity one makes an increasing number of choices. There are decisions which a child is not ready to make because of his/her limited capacities and experience. Therefore, we must avoid offering the child a choice when we are not really willing to let him/her decide the questions.
Your voice is a teaching tool. Use words and tone of voice which will help the child to feel confident and reassured. A quiet, firm manner of speaking conveys confidence. It may be necessary to speak firmly, but it is never necessary to raise one’s voice. The most effective speech is simple, direct, and slow. It is always better to move nearer the person, to whom you are speaking, rather than to call or shout across any play area. Your words will get a better reception if they are spoken quietly and face to face.
Avoid trying to change behavior by methods which may lead to loss of selfrespect such as shaming a child or labeling behavior “naughty” or “selfish”.
Neither children nor adults are likely to develop desirable behavior patterns as the result of fear, shame, or guilt. In learning constructive ways of guiding behavior,
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our first step is to eliminate destructive patterns through gestures, expressions, and tones of voice words which pass judgment.
Avoid motivating a child by making comparisons between one child and another or by encouraging competition . Children who are encouraged to be competitive are very likely to quarrel more with one another. In competition someone always loses and is likely to feel hurt and resentful. Competition does not build friendly and social feelings. Neither constant success nor too many failures prepares a child for what he/she will meet later in a competitive world.
Therefore, we try to attempt to avoid competitive kinds of motivation until children have developed ego strength and can balance failures with success (this does not usually occur in the preschool realm).
Redirect the child by suggesting an activity that is related to his/her own purposes or interests whenever possible. We will be more successful in changing the child’s behavior if we attempt to turn the child’s attention to an act which has equal value for her. Suggestions for acting differently will take into account the different meanings in behaviors – Throwing (balls instead of sand).
Vigorous play (raking leaves instead of running wildly). Redirection should help the child face a problem by showing how it can be met, not by diverting it.
The effectiveness of a suggestion or a direction may depend largely in its timing.
The timing of a suggestion may be as important as the suggestion itself. Advice given too soon deprives the child of a chance to try to work things out for him/her. A suggestion made too late may have lost any chance of being successful. Through experience one can increase one’s skill in giving a suggestion at the moment when it will do the most good .
Students are discouraged from making any models in any art medium form for the children to copy. Art is valuable because it is a means of self-expression.
The young children need avenues of expression. This is partially because his/her speech is limited. If he/she has models to follow, he/she will less likely to be creative and more likely to be limited in trying to copy. Art then becomes only another area where he/she strives to imitate the adult who is the perfectionist.
Give the child the minimum of help in order that he/she may have the maximum chance to grow in independence, but give help when the child needs it. Children’s self-confidence is increased by independent solving problems. There are all kinds
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of ways to help a child help him/her rather than stepping in and doing it for him/her. In leaving the child free to satisfy his/her strong growth impulse to be independent, we support his/her feeling of confidence in him/her; “I can do this all by myself.” To let the child do things for him/her does not mean denying his/her requests for help. When a child asks for help, we listen to his/her request and answer it in a way that will make him/her less helpless and dependent.
Confidence in self is based on the foundation of trust in others.
Make your directions effective by reinforcing them when necessary. A verbal suggestion, even though given positively, may not be enough in itself. A glance at the right moment, moving nearer a child, a verbal suggestion, actual physical help are all techniques that will help a teacher or parent get his/her point across…sometimes words are simply too much! Actions speak louder than words!
Forestalling is the most effective way of handling problems. Learning to foresee and prevent problems rather than picking up the pieces after a difficulty is most effective. Effective guidance depends on knowing how to forestall and prevent trouble as much as on knowing what to do when trouble occurs.
When limits are necessary, they should be clearly defined and consistently maintained. In a well-planned environment there will not be many “no’s” but these “no’s” will be clearly defined, and the child will understand them. The adult must be the one who is responsible for limiting children so that they do not come to harm or do not harm others or destroy property. Children will feel more secure with adults who can take this responsibility.
Be alert to the total situation. Use the most strategic positions for supervising.
Observation of the total situation is essential to effective guidance . Trouble is seldom avoided by a suggestion given at a distance.
The health and safety of the children are a primary concern at all times . The skillful teacher never relaxes watchfulness for things which affect the health and safety of the children.
Observe and take notes…assists with The Work Sampling System
“The bottom line is we try to focus on what we want the child to do…..”
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